Tennessee House Bill HB2321

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/24
• Refer: 2/1/24
• Refer: 2/13/24
• Refer: 2/21/24
• Refer: 4/17/24
• Engrossed: 4/18/24
• Enrolled: 4/30/24
• Passed: 5/21/24
• Chaptered: 5/29/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 71, relative to a nursing home resident's personal needs allowance.

Impact

The implications of HB 2321 on state laws are primarily in the realm of long-term care financing and the welfare of nursing home residents. By establishing this allowance, the bill aims to ensure that residents can maintain some level of financial independence and dignity, which is a crucial aspect of quality care in nursing facilities. Additionally, the bill directs the health facilities commission to review and possibly revise recommendations designed to prevent the misuse of these personal funds by vendors or others, thereby reinforcing resident protection within long-term care settings.

Summary

House Bill 2321 aims to amend existing Tennessee laws regarding the personal needs allowance for nursing home residents. Specifically, the bill stipulates that a deduction of seventy dollars ($70.00) per month will be made from an eligible individual's total income, allowing that amount to be treated as a personal needs allowance under applicable federal regulations. This change is set to be effective from January 1, 2025, and is positioned to provide residents with a small but meaningful amount of income intended for personal expenses and needs.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB 2321 appears to be supportive, particularly among advocates for the elderly and nursing home residents. Supporters argue that the establishment of a personal needs allowance is a significant step toward improving the living standards of those in nursing homes. However, there may be contentions regarding the adequacy of the amount set aside and whether it truly meets residents' needs fully, indicating a need for ongoing discussion about how best to support vulnerable populations.

Contention

While the bill has generally been framed positively, discussions may arise concerning the sufficiency of the proposed allowances against the rising costs of living and care. A significant point of contention is likely to relate to the effectiveness of the health facilities commission's recommendations on protecting residents from potential exploitation over their allowance funds. There is a strong advocacy push to ensure that the needs and rights of nursing home residents are adequately safeguarded, highlighting a broader conversation about elderly care in Tennessee.